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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
Characterization and Isolation of Mouse Primary Microglia by Density Gradient Centrifugation
Published on: February 16, 2018
Isolation and Culture of Mouse Primary Microglia and Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells
Zihao Li1, Cun-Jin Zhang1,2
1Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School and the State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
Abstract:
Microglia and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are critical glia subsets in the central nervous system (CNS) and are actively engaged in a body of diseases, such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, etc. Microglia and OPC serve as compelling tools for the study of CNS diseases as well as the repair and damage of myelin sheath in vitro. In this protocol, we summarized a method which is capable of using the same batch of new-born mice to isolate and culture microglia and OPCs. It integrates the characteristics of practicality, convenience, and efficiency, providing a convenient, easy, and reliable technique for research.
Insights
This protocol details a practical method for isolating microglia and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) from newborn mice. This technique efficiently yields both cell types for studying central nervous system diseases and myelin repair.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Microglia and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are vital glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS).
- These cells play crucial roles in CNS diseases like stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
- They are important for studying CNS pathology and myelin sheath repair in vitro.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a streamlined protocol for isolating and culturing both microglia and OPCs from the same batch of newborn mice.
- To offer a practical, convenient, and efficient method for researchers.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of microglia and OPCs from newborn mouse brains.
- Culturing of both glial cell types from a single source.
Main Results:
- Successful co-isolation and culturing of microglia and OPCs.
- Demonstration of the method's practicality, convenience, and efficiency.
Conclusions:
- The described protocol provides a reliable technique for obtaining microglia and OPCs.
- This method facilitates research into CNS diseases and myelin repair processes.
